Ok, now I can get to the actual subject at hand!...

Yes most police are good people. But unfortunately the small number of ratbags give the whole force a very bad reputation. And when you run into an ugly copper, it can be a very ugly and damaging experience indeed.

As much as I desire to see a stronger and more effective police force, I am loathe to have anything to do with them, unless I absolutely have to. This is really bad, as I strongly believe that the general public should have a very large part to play in the overall policing regime, and should be strongly encouraged and facilitated in interaction with police.

So improving our police force and hence the rule of law across society is by no means just a matter of increasing police numbers....or of paying them more in the hope of getting better standard of service. Fundamental improvements in the nature of policing are also needed.

State police for general duties outside the towns and elected Sheriffs and a local force forcities and towns.
Much more local involvement.